My final post on the San Francisco area covers our day trip to Muir Woods National Monument. Located half an hour outside the city, the area was slated to be flooded as part of a dam project. It was saved in 1908 when congressman William Kent, who owned the land, donated it to the American government. The park was named after naturalist John Muir, who founded the Sierra Club and helped establish the National Park system.

Today, thanks to Kent's generosity, the beautiful Coast Redwoods in Muir Woods grow to 250 feet tall, and many range between 400 and 800 years old. The oldest is believed to be 1200 years old.

This monument is a place of peace and beauty, and I'll let the photos speak for themselves.

Gorgeous photos!!!! I love Muir Woods and have been on many a field trip with all my kids classes over the years ;) Love the picture of the three generations-the redwood trees always make me think of history and all the generations that have enjoyed them;)

Extraordinary photos of an extraordinary natural treasure, along with three extraordinary generations of women enjoying all of it! I must return and do the same, and not 'pass through' as I did my one and only time there!

Your photos are just gorgeous, Beth. We just came back from the west coast and visited Muir Woods…loved it! I think I have a photo of me in that same tree! Hated the ride there though…those very steep, windy roads…oh my!!